Ladji Ruffin is graduating from Mercer University’s College of Professional Advancement with a Bachelor of Science in criminal justice leadership.
What are your plans after graduation?
I am excited to continue creating positive change and supporting those negatively impacted by the criminal justice system. But for now, I’m taking time to focus on my family, especially my four grandchildren. I’ve worked hard to get here, and I want to soak in the joy of my graduation. It’s time to relax, celebrate and let myself fully enjoy this moment. No thoughts about going back to school right now — just allowing myself to rest and embrace this new chapter with gratitude.
Who was your favorite professor and why?
My favorite professor, Dr. Lynn Tankersley, has been an incredible mentor throughout my journey. Not only was Dr. T my professor but also my student advisor. From the moment I started, Dr. T made me feel welcomed and comfortable, even though I had been out of school for over 30 years. With great patience and understanding, Dr. T guided me toward classes that truly enhanced my personal and academic growth. I will always be grateful for the support and encouragement I received from Dr. T during this transformative experience.
What is one of your favorite Mercer memories?
Studying abroad in Guatemala was a life-changing experience. The entire trip immersed me in the culture, geography and rich history of the country. It opened my eyes to a new way of seeing the world and deeply impacted how I view life today. I learned so much during my time there, not just academically but also personally. I would highly recommend studying abroad to anyone — it’s an experience that can truly transform my perspective.
What was your favorite class and why?
My African American studies class gave me the incredible opportunity to work on the Gullah-Geechee St. Simons project. Through this project, I was able to learn about the rich history and culture of the Gullah-Geechee community. I had the privilege of interviewing members of the community and creating a digital story that will be archived for future generations to access. This project not only deepened my understanding of the Gullah-Geechee heritage but also allowed me to contribute to preserving their history. I truly loved this class and the valuable experience it gave me.
How do you plan on changing the world?
I am the proud owner of Authentic Braille Masters LLC, a company dedicated to transcribing books into Braille. Our mission goes beyond providing high-quality Braille materials; we also advocate for equal access to education and services for people who are blind and visually impaired.
In addition to our core work, I am passionate about creating programs that support individuals who are navigating the criminal justice system, especially those who also face mental health challenges and substance misuse. I am committed to developing classes and initiatives that help these individuals, as well as creating resources that will better prepare families to feel welcome.
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